From Bold Reds to Crisp Whites: Wines on our Radar Right Now
Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or simply love a good glass at the end of the day, the world of wine never stops evolving. This season, we’re keeping our eyes (and palates) on a curated list of standout bottles — South Africa’s wine scene is definitely having a moment.
From boutique cellar releases to bold new vintages from trusted estates, local winemakers are pushing boundaries while honouring tradition. Think elegant blends, playful mixtures, and unexpected finds that deserve a spot in your cellar — or at least on your next dinner table.
Whether you’re after a silky Pinotage, a crisp Chenin Blanc, or something a little more unexpected, here’s a list of the best wines we’re sipping and why you should be too.
Crisp White Wines
The three most popular white wines in South Africa (and on our radar) are Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay:
Chenin Blanc
Origin: Loire Valley, France — but it thrives in South Africa, where it’s the most widely planted grape.
Style: Hugely versatile — can be crisp and zesty or rich and barrel-aged.
Flavour profile: Green apple, pear, quince, honey, with a slightly waxy texture. Some have floral notes or a touch of spice.
Best with: Mild curries, roast chicken, sushi, or goat cheese.
Vibe: Fresh, flexible, and proudly South African. Great for warm afternoons or gourmet pairings.
Sauvignon Blanc
Origin: Bordeaux and Loire Valley, France.
Style: Typically dry and zippy. South African Sauvignon Blancs are known for their bold aromatics.
Flavour profile: Gooseberry, green pepper, lime, passionfruit, and sometimes a flinty minerality.
Best with: Seafood, asparagus, green salads, and anything with fresh herbs.
Vibe: Bright, punchy, and expressive. A go-to for fans of crisp white wines with attitude.
Our pick: La Motte La Famille Sauvignon Blanc 2025
Chardonnay
Origin: Burgundy, France.
Style: Can vary widely — from unoaked and lean to creamy, full-bodied and buttery depending on winemaking style.
Flavour profile: Citrus, apple, melon, vanilla, toast, and nuts (especially in barrel-aged versions).
Best with: Rich dishes like creamy pastas, roast chicken, or seafood in butter sauces.
Vibe: Polished and sophisticated. The white wine for red wine drinkers.
Our pick: Hamilton Russel Chardonnay 2023
Bold Red Wines
South Africa’s signature grape is Pinotage, but Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and red blends remain firm favourites among local wine lovers.
Pinotage
Origin: A South African original, developed in 1925 by crossing Pinot Noir and Cinsault (known locally as Hermitage).
Style: Can be light and juicy or bold and structured, depending on the winemaker’s approach. Modern styles lean toward elegance and refinement.
Flavour profile: Plum, cherry, blackberries, smoke, spice, and earthy undertones. Some versions show hints of chocolate, coffee, or banana.
Best with: Braaied lamb, bobotie, pulled pork, or mushroom risotto.
Vibe: Boldly South African and deeply expressive. A wine with heritage and attitude — perfect for those who like something unique.
Our pick: Kanonkop Pinotage 2022
Shiraz
Origin: Rhône Valley, France. In South Africa, “Shiraz” typically refers to the riper, New World style.
Style: Full-bodied with bold fruit and spice. Can be plush and smooth or earthy and peppery.
Flavour profile: Blackberry, black pepper, plum, smoked meat, cloves, and dark chocolate.
Best with: Grilled steaks, game meats, biltong, or anything charred and smoky.
Vibe: Rich, dramatic, and powerful. A winter favourite or a showstopper at a dinner party.
Our pick: Waterford Kevin Arnold Shiraz 2019
Cabernet Sauvignon
Origin: Bordeaux, France. Known globally as the “King of Reds.”
Style: Structured, tannic, and built to age. Often oaked, with complex layering.
Flavour profile: Blackcurrant (cassis), dark cherry, tobacco, mint, pencil shavings, cedar.
Best with: Roast beef, venison, aged cheeses, or rich tomato-based dishes.
Vibe: Classic and confident. A wine with backbone and prestige — perfect for serious red wine lovers.
Our pick: Black Elephant Amazing Grace Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Merlot
Origin: Bordeaux, France.
Style: Softer, fruitier, and rounder than Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Easy drinking but still elegant.
Flavour profile: Plum, red berries, mocha, vanilla, and soft herbs.
Best with: Pasta, roast chicken, lamb chops, or creamy mushroom dishes.
Vibe: Smooth, plush, and versatile. The people-pleaser of the red wine world.
Our pick: Antonij Rupert Merlot 2018
Red Blend
Origin: Inspired by Bordeaux (Cabernet, Merlot) and Rhône (Shiraz, Grenache) traditions, with a uniquely South African spin — especially Cape Blends, which include Pinotage.
Style: Varies — can be silky and elegant or bold and full-bodied, depending on the blend.
Flavour profile: Layers of dark and red fruits, spice, oak, and earthy undertones. Often rich and complex.
Best with: Anything from braais and oxtail stews to hard cheeses and lamb shanks.
Vibe: Refined but approachable. A winemaker’s playground and a crowd-pleasing choice for almost any occasion.
Our pick: Alvi’s Drift Albertus Viljoen Bismarck Vintage 2020
Thank you to Go Wellington and Caroline’s Fine Wine Cellar for helping us curate this “best wines on our radar” list!
